Apple has already made major changes to the way iOS works in Europe due to the Digital Markets Act (DMA). The purpose of this law is to prevent big tech companies from misusing their power. However, the European Union (EU) now wants Apple to do even more. The EU is asking Apple to make iOS work better with other platforms and to share features and technologies that are currently exclusive to Apple.

The European Commission released a document on Wednesday as part of its antitrust investigation into Apple, according to Bloomberg. In the document, the EU lists specific changes it wants Apple to make. For example, it asks Apple to allow users to easily connect devices like smartwatches and headphones from other brands with iPhones. Right now, it’s often easier to use Apple accessories like AirPods and Apple Watches. The EU also wants Apple to allow third-party apps to work completely in the background. Currently, only Apple’s first-party apps can do this. The document also mentions that features like AirPlay and AirDrop should be open to devices that are not made by Apple.

The EU has set a deadline of January 9, 2025 to review the matter. If Apple does not comply, the EU could launch a formal investigation. Due to this, Apple may have to pay a fine of up to 10 percent of its global annual revenue. This is a huge amount for the company. Apple has responded by opposing the EU’s demands. In an online document, Apple argued that DMA rules could harm user privacy and security. The company said it was being unfairly targeted and claimed that opening up its technologies would make iPhones less secure. Apple also revealed that companies like Meta (which owns Facebook, Instagram and WhatsApp) are asking for access to sensitive iOS features.

Apple argues that if it grants all of Meta’s requests, it could allow apps like Facebook to track users’ calls, messages, and activities. The company said it deliberately chose not to collect this type of data to protect its users. Meanwhile, Meta says it needs access to Apple’s features to improve products like Ray-Ban smart glasses and the Meta Quest headset. Apple countered, saying that its existing system already allows these devices to work with the iPhone without any special permission.

This is not just an EU issue. In Brazil, regulators are also pressuring Apple to open up its ecosystem. Apple is fighting against that decision but may have to allow sideloading there too. As the January 2025 deadline approaches, Apple’s next move will be closely watched by regulators, developers and users around the world.